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Now that we are in the holiday season, take a look at the variety of programs offered at a branch near you! Take the kids to a storytime with Santa, watch A Christmas Carol live, prepare for holiday meals, and much more.

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Missouri

ATTENTION Missouri Residents!

You may have heard the news about the REAL ID Act and how it affects the use of drivers' licenses as valid forms of ID in federal facilities (including domestic and foreign flights). Here's some information and links related to the REAL ID Act…

Good 'Ol Adventure Is Calling!

Recent family responsibilities have led me to spend a lot of time on the eastern side of Missouri, mostly in the Hannibal area. Many Midwesterners are aware that Samuel Clemens, or Mark Twain as he is commonly known, grew up in Hannibal (he was actually born in Florida, Missouri). If you get a chance to visit Hannibal, you will see how they capitalize on one of their favorite sons and his literary creations… with the Mark Twain Dinette, Pudd’nhead’s Antiques, Becky Thatcher’s Antiques, and even the oh-so-politically-incorrect Injun Joe’s Campground.

Happy Birthday, Missouri!

August 10th is the 192nd anniversary of statehood for Missouri. Missouri became a territory on June 4, 1812. As the population increased by 1817 to 40,000, petitions, or Memorials for Statehood, were sent out. John Scott, the Missouri territorial delegate, presented Congress with the petition in January 1818. It was sent to committee but not acted on.

Day Trips Not Too Far From Home

My husband and I love to go on daytrips around the Kansas City area. We have done all the historical events in Independence associated with the Oregon Trail, as well as taken tours of the historical homes in the area like Bingham-Waggoner and Vaile Mansions. We usually combine a daytrip with a lunch out and try to go to a new restaurant for some good local food.

Missouri Sights and Sites (Day Tripping)

As this baby boomer has matured in experience (I refuse to acknowledge that I am getting older), I have started visiting attractions that may be considered off the pathway instead of the more popular tourist attractions. Besides, how many roller coasters can one ride in one’s lifetime? So, let me tell you of a few of these places in Missouri.

Interested in Seeing the Fall Colors of Missouri?

9th Annual Northland Ethnic Festival

The 9th Annual Northland Ethnic Festival will take place on Saturday, March 31st from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Park Hill South High School in Riverside, MO. Bring the family and experience culture from around the world at this free event featuring authentic ethnic food, displays, arts and crafts, family history and genealogy help. Music and dance will be performed throughout the day and a beautiful international fashion show to complete the day's festivities.

Are We There Yet???

Life in Raytown...Way Back When...

Ever wonder what life was like way back when? For me, it’s fun to read about events and happenings, especially in the town where I work. That’s what I can do by researching the Raytown News/Raytown Tribune/Raytown News Dispatch on microfilm. The Raytown Branch recently acquired microfilm from the Raytown Historical Society for the Raytown News from January 2, 1930—November 29, 1962.